Hawks at Raptors
THE STORY: Atlanta
is one win away from clinching a playoff spot but had to postpone its
celebration after a 102-86 home loss to Toronto on Sunday. The teams
take this home-and-home series north of the border, where the Hawks have
won three in a row. The Raptors win Sunday snapped a six-game losing
skid to Atlanta going back to 2010.
TV: 7 p.m. ET, SportSouth (Atlanta), SNET1 (Toronto)
ABOUT THE HAWKS (35-25): Sunday’s loss was only the second time in
the past six games Atlanta has fallen short on the scoreboard. The Hawks
sit fifth in the Eastern Conference, tied with Orlando. Josh Smith
scored 26 points Sunday and was the only starter in double figures. The
Hawks other four starters combined for only 12 points on 4-of-19
shooting. Atlanta coach Larry Drew dipped deep into his bench, playing
five reserves at least 20 minutes each.
ABOUT THE RAPTORS (22-39):
Toronto won its second straight game over an Eastern Conference playoff
team. The Raptors did so without starting guard Jose Calderon, who is
doubtful for Monday with an eye injury, and star Andrea Bargnani, who is
out for the season because of a lingering calf issue. The Raptors shot
better than 55 percent from the field and topped the century mark for
the first time in nine games, thanks to 23 points from DeMar DeRozan.
BUZZER BEATERS:
1. This home-and-home set is the first time Toronto has played the same opponent on consecutive nights this season.
2. Monday marks Atlanta's final road game of the season, with five remaining at home.
3. The Raptors have three players on 10-day contracts that expire Monday. One is Alan Anderson, who scored 16 points Sunday.